Frequent Garage Door & Gate Problems Every Homeowner Should Know
The average garage door is among the biggest moving components of most homes, and most people rely on it more than any other entrance. Given how often it runs, breakdowns are almost inevitable.Fortunately that the majority of problems fall into a few common categories. Learning the basics will save you an expensive emergency call.Broken and Worn SpringsThe torsion springs carry the heavy lifting every time the door moves. Springs are held under extreme pressure, which is the reason they don't last forever.When a spring breaks, you will usually notice: the door only rises a few inches. This is not a do-it-yourself job — a single mistake can send you to the hospital. Have a professional handle it, and swap them as a pair so the second one doesn't fail soon after.Garage Door Opener ProblemsThe opener unit break down for a number of reasons, and not all of them mean a big repair. Check the easy stuff first: a dead remote battery is the most common culprit.When only the remote fails, the issue is likely the remote or keypad. When you hear the motor but nothing happens, you may be looking at a burned-out motor that requires a technician.When the Door Comes Off Its TrackA garage door that grinds when it moves has often jumped its track. It often occurs when a roller wears out. In any case, stop using the opener — continuing to use it can make the repair more expensive.Cable and Drum ProblemsThese parts help balance the door to move the door safely. If a cable breaks, one side may drop. Like springs, cables are under tension and are not a DIY fix.Fixing Automatic GatesDriveway gates are a great feature, but they bring maintenance needs. Gate motors sometimes fail after a storm, and the photo eyes may need realignment.A gate that stops halfway often signals a worn part. Because gates carry heavy motors and electrical parts, a trained pro should handle the work.The Value of Routine UpkeepThe best way to avoid these repairs is regular maintenance. Keeping the tracks clean and testing the safety features can add years to the life of your system.When something does break, hiring an experienced pro keeps everyone safe. A professional can spot the real issue and get your door or gate working again. see more